Analyst Toolbox

I sniggered when I looked at this (PDF) because my first thought was, We're in even bigger trouble than I thought if law enforcement intelligence analysts need to be told what a word processor is and how it could be useful. This very basic 12-page guide from the U.S. Department of Justice introduces software useful for intelligence analysts, who have investigative needs very similar to journalists. In addition to word processors ("To produce text documents, including bulletins, fact sheets, investigative summaries, and analytical reports"), it briefly explains software for spreadsheets, databases, mapping, presentations, graphics, statistics, timelines, creating PDFs, publishing, analyzing phone records, link analysis, data mining, data visualization and investigative case management.

In the same spirit, allow me to offer intelligence analysts my own advice: Osama bin Laden. Bad guy. Go get him.